India’s iconic off-road SUV is getting a major upgrade as Mahindra & Mahindra prepares the launch of the Mahindra Thar 5 Door in 2026. The new model will bring two additional doors, a bigger cabin, improved comfort features, and powerful engine options, making the Thar more practical for families and adventure lovers.
The current Mahindra Thar has been extremely popular in India, but many buyers wanted more space and easier rear-seat access. The new 5-door version aims to solve exactly that while maintaining the rugged off-road character of the original Thar.
Bigger Design with Practical 5-Door Layout
The Mahindra Thar 5 Door will retain the bold and rugged styling that made the Thar famous but with a longer wheelbase and more spacious body.
Expected design highlights include:
- Signature boxy SUV styling
- Large round LED headlights
- Wider front grille design
- New alloy wheel options
- Extended wheelbase for extra space
- Rear doors for easier passenger access
The longer body will also provide more rear legroom and a larger boot space, making the SUV far more practical for daily use.
Powerful 2.2L Diesel Engine
Under the hood, the Mahindra Thar 5 Door is expected to feature the powerful 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, which is already used in other Mahindra SUVs.
Expected engine specifications:
- Engine: 2.2L mHawk diesel
- Power: around 130–150 PS
- Torque: around 300–350 Nm
- Transmission: manual and automatic options
- 4×4 drivetrain: expected in higher variants
This engine is known for delivering strong torque and excellent off-road capability, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
Expected Mileage
Despite its rugged design and powerful engine, the Thar 5 Door is expected to offer respectable fuel efficiency.
Estimated mileage figures:
- Diesel variants: around 15 km/l
- Petrol variants: around 13–14 km/l
These figures will make the Thar competitive with other SUVs in its class.
Premium Interior and Modern Features
The 2026 Thar 5 Door will also bring several upgrades inside the cabin to improve comfort and technology.
Expected interior features include:
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Automatic climate control
- Rear AC vents
- Premium upholstery
- Multiple USB charging ports
The additional space will make the cabin far more comfortable for long journeys.
Safety and Off-Road Technology
Mahindra is expected to equip the Thar 5 Door with several safety and off-road technologies.
Possible safety features include:
- Up to 6 airbags
- Electronic Stability Control
- Hill descent control
- Hill hold assist
- Rear parking camera
- Traction control system
- Advanced 4×4 modes
These features will ensure that the SUV remains capable both on-road and off-road.
Expected Price in India
The Mahindra Thar 5 Door will be positioned slightly above the current 3-door Thar.
Estimated price range:
₹18 lakh – ₹22 lakh (ex-showroom)
The SUV will compete with lifestyle off-road vehicles such as:
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny
- Force Gurkha
However, the larger size and stronger engine could give the Thar a major advantage in this segment.
Launch Timeline
Reports suggest that the Mahindra Thar 5 Door could officially launch in 2026, with bookings expected to begin shortly before the launch.
The SUV has already been spotted testing multiple times on Indian roads, indicating that development is in the final stages.
With more space, better comfort, and the same legendary off-road capability, the upcoming Thar 5 Door could become one of the most anticipated SUV launches in India.